Signs of an abused child

Watch for these signs and take these steps to spot and report child abuse.

Signs of an abused child

• Nervous around adults

• Fearful of certain adults

• Reluctant to go home

• Runs away from home

• Withdrawn or aggressive

• Complains of fatigue, nightmares, not sleeping well

• Fearful and anxious

• Sudden changes in behavior or school performance

• Frequently misses school

• Unexplained burns, bruises, black eyes

• Faded bruises or healing injuries

• Injuries that don't match the explanation

• Difficulty walking or sitting (indicates injury to genitals)

• Sexual knowledge or behavior beyond what is normal for the child's age • Uses alcohol and/or drugs

• Begging for or stealing money or food

• Frequent uncleanliness

• Lacks needed medical or dental care

• Claims no one is home to take care of them

Signs of an abusive adult

• Unconcerned about the child's welfare

• Blames the child for causing problems

• Sees the child as worthless or a burden

• Denies problems

• Gives conflicting explanations for child's injuries

• Abuses alcohol and/or drugs

• Uses harsh physical discipline

• Isolates the child

• Isolates self from other parents and school/community activities

• Frequently belittles or insults the child

• Depends on the child for emotional support

How to report child abuse

Call the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services hotline at 1-800-252-2873

Prevention resources

National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2016: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/preventionmonth/

Illinois Department of Child and Family Services Child Protection: https://www.illinois.gov/dcfs/safekids/reporting/Pages/index.aspx